Fresh Claims Of Racism Against Chelsea Fans

An investigation has been launched after reports of racist and abusive behaviour by Chelsea fans on a train to Manchester.

British Transport Police said it was called to meet the train, which was travelling from London on Sunday night, as it entered Stoke station.

Officers are examining mobile phone footage of the alleged incident, which was obtained from a witness on the train.

Four men were asked to leave the train and four others left of their own accord.

Chelsea had earlier won the Capital One Cup after beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 at Wembley Stadium.

It follows an alleged racist incident involving Chelsea supporters on the Paris Metro last month before the club's Champions League match against Paris St-Germain.

A spokesman for British Transport Police said: "Shortly after 10.30pm on Sunday, 1 March, officers were called to meet a Euston-to-Manchester Piccadilly train at Stoke, following reports of racist and abusive behaviour by a number of passengers, said to be football fans.

"Colleagues from Staffordshire Police also attended. Officers asked four men to leave the train at Stoke. We have spoken to two witnesses, and investigations continue.

"Rail passengers and staff have the right to travel and work in peace. Abusive behaviour on trains and at stations is unacceptable, and we will not hesitate to investigate any such incidents."

Chelsea suspended five supporters following an internal investigation into the Paris Metro incident. Footage showed a man being blocked from boarding a train by fans travelling to the Parc des Princes on 17 February.

The fans could be heard chanting "we're racist, we're racist and that's the way we like it".

Another group of fans returning from Paris were heard shouting racist chants at London's St Pancras station.

A Chelsea spokesman said: "We are aware of the reports but it is not clear at this time if this incident involves Chelsea supporters.

"If it did then we will assist the British Transport Police with their inquiries."